Day Twenty-Eight: Strength in the Midst of Opposition
Saturday, Fourth Week of Lent – April 5, 2025

Scripture Passage:
“Never before has anyone spoken like this man.” (John 7:46)

Opening Reflection:
As we near the end of the Lenten journey, we are reminded that choosing to follow Christ often invites opposition. Whether it’s external criticism or internal doubt, the path of faith is not always applauded. The guards in today’s Gospel were moved by Jesus’ words, but the Pharisees reacted with scorn, belittling them and all who believed. Yet, in Jesus we find the voice that speaks truth to the heart—a truth that silences lies and penetrates the soul.

Meditative Reflection:
Jesus did not come for the perfect, but for the broken, the lost, and those yearning for mercy. Still, the Pharisees, in their pride, could not grasp this. Their hearts, hardened by self-righteousness, became vessels for the enemy’s tactics intimidation, false accusations, and spiritual discouragement. We too can face such spiritual warfare. The evil one may try to shake our confidence, make us question our worth, or overwhelm us with fear. But Lent is our training ground. It reminds us that no one is beyond God’s forgiveness, and that with each sincere return to God, grace abounds. Like those who believed Jesus despite ridicule, we must hold firm to His Word and allow Him to lead us through every desert of doubt.

Reflection Questions:
Have I allowed fear, pride, or discouragement to cloud my faith? Do I sometimes feel too broken to be forgiven? How do I respond when others mock or misunderstand my faith? Am I humble and open to God’s mercy, or self-sufficient and resistant to change?

Lenten Question:
Q: Can someone be too sinful to be forgiven by God?
A: No. God’s mercy is infinite. The only barrier to forgiveness is the refusal to ask for it. A contrite heart, no matter how sinful, is always welcomed by God.

Lenten Action:
Reach out to someone who feels distant or rejected whether by others or by God. Remind them through your kindness and words that no one is too far gone for mercy.

Concluding Prayer:
Lord Jesus, Your truth pierces through every lie and draws hearts to Yourself. Help me not to fear the voices of doubt or discouragement. Give me the courage to stand firm when I am attacked for my faith, and the humility to recognize my constant need for Your mercy. Strengthen me when I am weak, and help me to extend Your forgiveness to others. I place my trust in You, O Lord, my refuge and strength.
Amen.

Resources for Lenten Prayers and Reflections:

Daily Saints and Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Lenten Reflections | EWTN | https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/reflections/lent

Lenten Prayers and Daily Reflections | My Catholic Life | https://mycatholic.life/lent-prayers-reflections/